It can be hard to know what to say to your children if you or someone close to the family is diagnosed with cancer. How much should you tell them and in what context should you put it? This article will give you some great tips to guide you through that tough conversation with your little one.
Seeking support from a support group is important when you are battling cancer and getting help. You will be able to learn valuable information from people who have already been in your shoes. They will be able to tell you what they went through and what things really worked for them.
Understand that cancer treatments generally come with unpleasant side effects that you need to address. A health care professional can outline the different treatment options and the likely side effects of each one. If your hair falls out as a result of chemotherapy, you many want to purchase a wig. If your skin becomes pale, as a result of cancer treatments, you might want to wear special makeup.
One of the best cancer-prevention tips you can ever use is to check out your family’s medical history in detail. Most people who contract cancer have genetic markers that make it more likely to grow and spread. Know and understand your family’s medical history and you can do more to prevent cancer.
It feels like you’re going through the sickness too if someone you love has cancer, but you have to stay healthy in order to be supportive. Those late nights at the hospital and skipped meals can take their toll on your health. You’re no good to anyone if you’re frail, tired and weak. Keep your health up.
If you get cancer, or if someone you know does, learn as much as possible on this topic. Learning will give you the confidence you need.
There is no conceivable reason that you have to live with unbearable pain as a cancer sufferer, so make sure that you are getting the right pain medication. There are dozens of pain meds out there, and if the one you’re taking isn’t working well, make sure you tell your doctor that you need something different.
Individuals with cancer like to know what to expect from their treatments and the disease itself. Help them find information by looking online, visiting the local cancer center and asking questions of medical professionals. The information you gather could be crucial in helping them stay focused and maintain a positive attitude.
When you are dealing with cancer, you want to have a sufficient support group. This support group can get you through the worst of times and even the best of times, offering the support that is needed and the motivation you need to continue with your treatment and therapy measures.
Don’t smoke, or stop if you have already started. Smoking is linked to about three out of every ten cancer deaths. It is damaging to your heart, lungs, and skin. Even moderate smoking carries heavy risks. If you choose not to start, or can stop today, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier life.
Limit the amount of red meats, and especially processed meats, in your diet. A healthy diet is linked to reduced risks of cancer. Eating a heavy amount of red, processed meats will increase the fat content of your diet. The processing in particular exposes you to some potentially harmful chemicals and preservatives. All of these things can be high risk factors for cancer.
Many people do not think to protect their lips when they are out in the sun. No matter the season or the length of time you are going to be in the sun, take the time to apply lip balm. Be sure that the balm that you choose has a good SPF level to protect your lips.
Eating the right foods and exercising frequently can actually help to prevent cancer. By not exercising or by eating the wrong foods, you are increasing your risk of becoming obese. Obesity is a common cause of cancer and is something that can easily be prevented. Try eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables.
It is important to listen to your body. If you are feeling tired, get rest. If your metabolism is not as fired up as you want, change up your diet regimen. Be open to what your body is saying, and then give it what it wants.
Make the changes in your life that will make for a more positive outcome. Quit smoking, get more exercise even if you do not feel like it, eat better and keep your hopes high. These are the kinds of changes that will give you a better chance in beating your disease.
As discussed at the beginning of the article, it can be hard to know what to say to your little ones when you or someone close to the family is diagnosed with cancer. Hopefully, this article has helped you feel a little more prepared for having that sensitive conversation with your children.
